Category: BTS

Bangtansonyeondan—more popularly known as BTS—is a South Korean boy band who debuted in 2013 under Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE). The group comprises seven members: Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Together, they have become one of the world’s most popular and successful music groups, with a devoted fan base known as the “ARMY.”

BTS first gained attention in South Korea with their debut single “No More Dream,” but it wasn’t until their hit song “Blood Sweat & Tears” that they truly broke through to the mainstream. Since then, they have released many successful albums, including “Love Yourself: Tear,” “Map of the Soul: 7,” and “BE (Deluxe Edition).”

One thing that sets BTS apart from other K-pop groups is their dedication to creating music with meaningful lyrics. Many of their songs address social issues, such as mental health and self-love, and the group has earned a lot of praise for their positive influence on young people.

In addition to their music, BTS is known for their energetic and visually stunning live performances. They have toured extensively, performing in arenas and stadiums worldwide, and have won numerous awards for their concerts.

BTS has also made a name for themselves outside of the music industry. They have been featured in several magazines, including Rolling Stone and Time, and have appeared on famous US talk shows such as The Late Show with James Corden and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

The success of BTS has made them role models for many fans, and they are known for their philanthropy and charitable work. Together with UNICFE, they launched their Love Myself campaign in 2018 to promote self-acceptance and end violence against children and young people.

BTS is a global phenomenon that has significantly impacted the music industry and beyond. Their talent, dedication, and positive message have earned them a massive and loyal fan base that continues to grow each day.

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BTS’s V Has Had a Huge Impact on Compose Coffee’s Success

Compose Coffee

Since he became its endorser, BTS’s V has played a major part in helping Compose Coffee reach new heights.

Established in Busan in 2014, Compose Coffee has rapidly expanded its presence, boasting over 2,400 locations throughout South Korea, with a significant concentration in Seoul and Busan. In May 2023, the 2023 Korea’s Most Loved Brand Awards recognized Compose Coffee as the country’s favorite coffee shop. That event was run by Forbes Korea and sponsored by South Korea’s Ministry of Science and ICT and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.

@lourie_v95

Compose Coffee, South Korea’s leading coffee retailer, has launched a new marketing campaign featuring global star Taehyung as their brand model. Posters showcasing Taehyung are now on display across Compose Coffee’s extensive network of 2,400 franchise locations nationwide. In the Korean market, only the most prominent celebrities are chosen to represent major coffee brands. Taehyung’s appointment demonstrates his wide appeal and commercial power within the industry. #foryoupage #fyp #kpop #BTSV #bts #taehyung #V #kimtaehyung #armybts #Taehyung #composecoffee #coffee #southkorea

♬ original sound – lourie_V95

Positioned as the fourth-largest coffee chain in South Korea, Compose Coffee trails behind giants like Paris Baguette, Mega Coffee, and Ediya Coffee—but not for long. The brand plans to expand domestically and internationally. The South Korean coffee market is ripe for growth, and Compose Coffee is eager to seize opportunities to cement its presence. That’s where BTS’s V came in.

 The day he became an endorser in December 2023 marked a pivotal moment for the brand. Posters featuring the pop icon’s handsome face quickly went up in stores nationwide, signaling the start of a fruitful collaboration. A Compose Coffee representative expressed excitement about the partnership. “We’re delighted to collaborate with a global artist who is loved worldwide regardless of gender or age. Through synergy with the 21st-century pop icon, BTS’s V, Compose Coffee anticipates even greater growth next year. This collaboration marks a significant step forward.”

V is a Composer, eVeryone is a Composer

Compose Coffee launched a successful campaign

The first advertisement video featuring V, titled “V is a composer, eVeryone is a composer,” was released on the brand’s official YouTube channel on January 15. The ad, which drew inspiration from films like The French Dispatch and Big Fish, quickly captured the attention of millions of fans worldwide. It was also revealed that the “Slow Dancing” singer contributed some ideas to the making of the video, showcasing his creative side.

The impact of V’s endorsement on Compose Coffee has been nothing short of remarkable. K-media recently reported that the brand surpassed 10 million cumulative subscribers on its app. Before V became the face of the brand, it had less than 9.3 million. By January 1, this figure surged to nearly 12 million. This surge marked an increase of 2.6 million users in just 10 days. Compose Coffee has also become more popular among the youth.

@angootv

Taehyung’s cup sleeve at Compose Coffee💕 컴포즈 뷔 컵홀더 나왔다 #bts #btsv #방탄소년단 #kimtaehyung #btsarmy #korea #seoul #seoullife

♬ wherever u r (ft. V of BTS) – UMI & V

Earlier this month, Compose Coffee unveiled customized cup sleeves featuring photos of V. They propelled the brand to the No. 1 spot on Baemin, South Korea’s largest delivery service. Korean fans were able to get them, while international fans have been encouraging the brand to expand its presence globally to offer products associated with V.

In other news, V is set to join the second Army Corps in Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, after finishing a three-week intensive training course with the Special Duty Team of the Capital Defense Command. Despite his enlistment, V‘s star power remains undiminished, as evidenced by the successful campaign launched by Compose Coffee. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The brand received a boost in popularity when V came on board. Sources: X/@BTSDailyInfo_Up, YouTube/@composecoffee.official.

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ARMYs Furious at British Soccer Club for Copying BTS’s Logo

The worlds of British football and K-pop collided in a controversial, unexpected way when the Birmingham City Football Club found itself at the center of a storm brewed by the BTS ARMY.

Birmingham City FC is a professional football club based in Birmingham, England. It plays its home games at St. Andrew’s Stadium, which has been their home turf since 1906. Recently, the club announced that it had added South Korean midfielder Paik Seung-ho to its roster of players.

https://www.tiktok.com/@paikc.ho_/video/7332157587053464840?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=6908322787502065153

Seung-ho is an Asian Games gold medalist. He’s also a prominent member of the South Korean national football team who was chosen to play in 15 official international matches. His best moments on the pitch include a truly memorable performance in the 2022 FIFA Men’s World Cup. He made a goal against Brazil during the Round of 16 and won the Asian Games 10 months later.

Paik signed a two-year contract with Birmingham City FC, which makes him the first-ever South Korean to join the club. His move to the UK comes after nearly three years with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in South Korea. That said, he’s no stranger to Europe, as he grew up and started his professional football career there.

@jorezazemxs

What are your thoughts on this ? Recently, the Birmingham City FC has been accused of copying the BTS logo. The professional football club Birmingham City FC recently welcomed South Korean midfielder Paik Seung Ho to their team. The soccer player signed a two-year contract with the football club and became the first South Korean player to represent Birmingham City FC. However, a recent post on social media platform X has stirred a wave of confusion and frustration among K-pop fans, particularly those who follow BTS. The cause of the uproar? The football club used a logo in their “coming soon” post for Paik Seung Ho that copied the beloved BTS emblem and included the initials P S H. This unexpected similarity has left fans perplexed and upset, questioning the originality and intent behind the club’s choice of design.#bts_official_bighit #btsforlife #armyforever #fyp #btsloveyourself #btspavedtheway

♬ IDOL – BTS

What did the club do with the BTS logo?

The controversy erupted thanks to a post on Birmingham City FC’s social media. It was accompanied by a photo bearing a logo similar to the one BTS began using in 2017. This move, intended to celebrate Paik’s signing, was perceived as a blatant act of plagiarism. The backlash was fierce and swift, with ARMYs accusing the football club of disrespecting BTS and misappropriating their logo.

Since their debut, BTS has captivated hearts not only with their music and performances but also with a logo that has become synonymous with their identity. This logo consists of two parts: the ARMY logo and the BTS logo. When you put them together, you get a shield. Some fans believe this shield is bulletproof and that it symbolizes the way the group and their fans protect each other. When the band first started using this logo, their agency, HYBE, told Korean media that it “symbolizes the youth who don’t settle for their current reality and instead open the door and go forward to achieve growth.”

BTS (방탄소년단) LOGO ANIMATION

Clearly, the logo means a lot to both the fans and the group. So, it’s no surprise that the fans’ reactions ranged from bemusement to confusion to outrage when they saw Birmingham City FC’s post. They took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their displeasure. Many felt it was disrespectful to use BTS’s logo to represent South Korea and its people. Others wondered if HYBE would sue the club for plagiarism or if it would simply let things slide.

So far, the agency has remained silent. But that hasn’t stopped the fans from airing their sentiments. Stay tuned for updates! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Fans are wondering how HYBE will react. Source: X/@kimiseul27.

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BTS V Reveals Why He Agreed to Play IU’s Partner in ‘Love Wins All’ MV

BTS’s V, also known as Taehyung, recently captivated fans with his appearance as IU’s partner in the music video for the pre-release single “Love Wins All.” The visually stunning and emotionally charged video featured V as IU’s love interest in a post-apocalyptic world, creating a buzz among fans.

But why play IU’s partner in the new MV? Kim Taehyung’s decision to take on this acting role, especially right before his mandatory military service, was influenced by two key factors that speak to his artistic sensibilities and passion for his craft.

Why BTS’s V Took on Acting Role as IU’s Partner in “Love Wins All” MV

Two factors led to Kim Taehyung’s decision to take on the new role. In a behind-the-scenes video, he admitted that he was influenced by his admiration for director Um Tae Hwa. A significant factor that drew V to the project was his deep admiration for the music video’s director. Having enjoyed Um Tae Hwa’s work, particularly in the film “Concrete Utopia,” V saw this collaboration as an opportunity to work with someone he looked up to. This artistic connection and respect for the director’s vision played a crucial role in V’s decision to be part of the project.

Secondly, V confessed his love for the Song “Love Wins All”. V’s artistic commitment extended to his appreciation for the song itself. He admired the composition of “Love Wins All” and held particular regard for the composer, Dong Hwan from Palette Band. Knowing that IU scouted the composer, V found the beauty of the song irresistible. His decision to join the project was, in part, driven by his love for the music, and he recognized that passing up on the opportunity would have led to regret.

The collaboration between V and IU in “Love Wins All” goes beyond a typical music video appearance. It showcases a unique blend of artistic minds, with V’s respect for the director’s craft and his genuine appreciation for the song contributing to the overall success of the project.

As V embarks on his mandatory military service, this music video stands as a poignant moment in his artistic journey, demonstrating his commitment to exploring diverse creative avenues within the entertainment industry. The visual and auditory masterpiece created through this collaboration has left a lasting impact on fans and the broader music and film community alike.

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Netizen Claims Jimin and Jungkook ‘Were Glued Together 24/7’

The K-pop world is abuzz with the latest news about BTS members Jimin and Jungkook. As all members of BTS are currently serving in the military, fans feel their absence deeply. Every update about the members is eagerly awaited, as it offers ARMYs a much-needed connection to their beloved idols. Recently, excitement surged among fans when a netizen claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that their friend’s son met Jimin and Jungkook while completing basic military training.

Their post read, “I heard a story about Jimin and Jungkook, albeit a bit late, from a family friend. According to her son, who trained with them at the military training center, Jimin and Jungkook were always seen together.”

X/@Jk_Jm_59_60

Further details from the netizen revealed that during a training session where the soldiers were made to race, Jimin performed so well that he came in third. Jungkook, however, couldn’t participate due to an injury. The netizen added that her friend’s son admired Jimin, as the idol was approachable and easygoing despite his superstar status. Reportedly, the “Closer Than This” hitmaker always had a smile on his face and was often the first to strike up conversations with his fellow soldiers. “Every time my friend’s son called home, he would always talk about ‘Jimin–hyung.’ He was really fond of Jimin.” 

Jimin and Jungkook are making the most of their time together

This isn’t the first time fans found proof that Jimin and Jungkook were attached at the hip during basic training. Before the military app The Camp was barred from using BTS members’ photos due to intellectual property rights issues, some photos surfaced on the app. These photos showed the two idols alongside other trainees, with Jungkook assigned number 59 and Jimin number 60. In some photos, Jimin is reading a training handbook, his number clearly displayed on his helmet. Other photos captured Jimin and Jungkook participating in various training exercises—dressed in military gear, holding guns, and marching.

@bighit_bts_hybe7

5th Division 59-Jungkook and 60-Jimin new pictures from Camp🫡💜💪 #jungkook #jimin #btsmilitaryupdate #bts #btsarmy #rmsjjhjmvjk #bts_official_bighit

♬ မူရင်းအသံ – 💜JIN💜 – Ar yh eh

Additional photos emerged after they graduated from basic training. While these were group photos showing Jimin and Jungkook with the rest of their unit, eagle-eyed fans spotted the two idols standing together in a corner of one of the photos. It’s worth noting that they enlisted together under the buddy system precisely so they could stay together in the military. They could’ve enlisted separately, but they chose not to.

@garmy2022bts

💜 JUNG KOOK és JIMIN 💜 more photos from the graduation ceremony. (2024.01.17.) #jungkook #jk #jeonjungkook #정국 #jungkookmilitary #btsarmy #goldenmaknae #bts #jimin #지민 #parkjimin #jiminpark #jimishi #jiminmilitary #jimkook #army #minkook #btsbrothers #togetherforever #militarybts #militaryservice #btsmilitary #btsfyp #saranghae #bts2025 #apobangpo #bts_official_bighit #fyp #foryoupage #viral

♬ original sound – ill

These photos and the netizen’s story sparked non-stop conversation among fans, who expressed happiness on social media. They were pleased to hear that Jimin and Jungkook are making the most of their time together. Serving in the military isn’t easy, and knowing that their faves can rely on each other for support during their service makes it easier for fans to wait for their discharge in 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ARMYs worldwide were thrilled to hear this update on Jimin and Jungkook’s service. Source: X/@kookminville.

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Jimin’s Dior Campaign Surpasses 700M USD in Revenue

BTS’s Jimin significantly boosted Dior’s sales in South Korea since becoming one of the luxury fashion house’s global brand ambassadors on January 16, 2023. According to the South Korean business magazine Economist, Dior’s revenue in South Korea crossed 1 trillion KRW (about 746 million USD) by the end of that year. This marked the first time its annual sales soared past the 1 trillion KRW mark since Dior entered the South Korean market in 1997. It was a notable increase from less than 100 billion KRW in 2017.

@dior

It’s a dose of London cool calling with Global Ambassador Jimin. #DiorSpring24

♬ original sound – Dior

A record high

This surge was somewhat expected, as Dior’s 2022 sales had already reached 930.5 billion KRW, a 52% increase from its 2021 sales, which were at 613.9 billion KRW. Dior’s operating profit also rose significantly during this period, going from 211.5 billion KRW to 323.8 billion KRW. It’s now the third global luxury brand to have crossed the 1 trillion KRW annual sales mark in South Korea, after Louis Vuitton and Chanel. Industry insiders say Dior celebrated this achievement by giving nearly all its employees bags from its own line. However, company management hasn’t confirmed this.

Jimin’s impact as Dior’s global brand ambassador is undeniable. The extensive campaign featuring him as the face of Dior Men’s Spring 2024 collection enjoyed widespread visibility, with fans documenting over 80 sightings of his ads worldwide. The campaign’s success was evident as the pieces he wore in the ads quickly sold out. Fans also snapped up other Dior items like bags and earrings. Remarkably, the hefty price tags didn’t deter ARMYs from showing support for Jimin and his new endorsement.

Speaking of prices, Dior’s stock price hit a record high of 789 EUR per share soon after he became an ambassador. His impact was also felt on social media—the hashtag #DIORxJIMIN and unboxing videos with Dior products went viral on various platforms. Additionally, the influencer marketing platform Lefty noted that two of the idol’s posts about Dior generated a media value of 17 million USD. Jimin was also the top influencer at the 2023/2024 Paris Fashion Week, contributing 54% to Dior’s Earned Media Value (EMV). Dior led the brand ranking with an EMV of 31.5 million USD.

@ashleyjune77

I am so obsessed with my new Dior star tag!! I want one now for every bag I own! Jimin is so cute for doing this and I love his creativity ✨🥰 my Jimin bubble locket keychain is from my favorite @Pastel Renaissance🫧🎀💕 !! 💖

♬ original sound – Ashley June 💜

The Jimin effect

Jimin’s impact went beyond advertising; he once sparked a new fashion trend among his followers involving Dior’s star tags. On November 23, he and his BTS bandmate Jungkook flew to Japan for work. At the airport, Jimin was seen wearing a beret cap, an oversized jacket, and Dior’s cross-body Hit the Road Bag with Strap. Fans noticed that there were two star-shaped charms hanging from the bag’s strap, adding a distinctive flair to it. This detail inspired fans to start collecting Dior star tags themselves, using them to decorate their bags as a way to express their love for Jimin.

That trip to Japan culminated in a memorable moment that further highlighted his influence. He posed for a photo in front of a Dior boutique, which fans later identified as the Ginza Six store in Tokyo. When he posted the photo on Instagram, it sparked a global movement of sorts. Fans worldwide embarked on a quest to find and pose for photos at Dior stores in their area, aiming to replicate Jimin’s iconic photo.

This phenomenon underscores the “Jimin effect”—his ability to turn everyday moments into trendsetting movements, significantly boosting Dior’s brand appeal and success. Given that, it’s safe to say 2023 wouldn’t have been a banner year for the brand if it weren’t for him. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The “Jimin effect” propelled Dior to such great heights in 2023. Source: Instagram/@dior.

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BTS ARMY Reacts to Rumored Leak of Jungkook’s Military Diary

On January 20, the BTS fan community was rocked by news involving Jungkook, the group’s golden maknae. Jungkook, who enlisted in the South Korean military under the buddy system alongside bandmate Jimin, found himself at the center of an alleged privacy breach scandal.

A netizen using the handle @DavyWer claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that a senior member of Jungkook’s military unit had leaked the idol’s military diary on Instagram. This diary, supposedly intended for an internal Korean military platform, wasn’t meant for public consumption. The netizen explained they found out about the leak through a friend from South Korea. They added that the senior responsible for it could face arrest and reprimand under military law.

X/@DavyWer

The senior’s intention for leaking the diary, whether malicious or otherwise, remains unknown. However, BTS fans, known for being fiercely protective of the members, have expressed concerns about Jungkook’s safety during his military service. The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the privacy of celebrities in general. It has also led to calls for restraint in sharing military-related content featuring celebrities, citing potential risks to their well-being.

Did Jungkook actually keep a diary?

However, some ARMYs suspect @DavyWer’s story is fake—as is the diary allegedly belonging to Jungkook. They raised doubts about its authenticity, noting that it’s not handwritten and questioning its style and tone. This skepticism has led to the belief that it could have been written by anyone, as it doesn’t actually sound like the “Standing Next to You” singer wrote it.

It’s important to note that South Korean men serving in the military are not required to keep diaries to be uploaded to a military platform. Military service in South Korea, mandatory for all male citizens, encompasses a variety of duties determined by the service branch and whether the duty is active or non-active. But keeping a diary isn’t part of these duties. This lends credence to the theory that @DavyWer’s story might actually be fake.

@hieroglyphs1

I can’t stop laughing #fyp #jungkook

♬ الصوت الأصلي – 🏛️A🏛️

This incident is not the first time rumors have circulated about Jungkook. Fans hope that he can complete his military service peacefully and without further unwarranted attention. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: News of the leak upset ARMYs until they realized it may be a hoax. Source: Weverse.

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IU And V Share ‘Love Wins All’ MV BTS Video & Photos

In a delightful treat for fans, IU and BTS’s V have taken fans behind the scenes of their collaborative “Love Wins All” MV. Following the much-anticipated release of the emotional and visually stunning music video on January 24, the behind-the-scenes footage offers an intimate look at the making of this impactful project.

IU and BTS’s V Share Behind-the-Scenes of “Love Wins All” MV Shoot

Directed by Um Tae Hwa, known for the film “Concrete Utopia,” the “Love Wins All” MV narrates a poignant tale set in a post-apocalyptic future. The story revolves around a couple on the run, navigating the challenges of survival in a world marked by devastation. The video captures the essence of the song’s emotional depth, showcasing IU and V’s compelling on-screen chemistry.

IU, celebrated for her musical prowess and storytelling abilities, shared a behind-the-scenes video of the music video set, providing insights into the creative process and the collaborative efforts that went into bringing the narrative to life. The footage captures the intricate details of the shoot, highlighting the dedication of the entire team involved in the production.

Additionally, both IU and V took to Instagram to share more glimpses from the music video shoot. V’s caption, “Be happy, Tae Joon and Ji Hye,” adds a personal touch, referring to the characters portrayed by IU and himself in the music video. This interaction on social media adds an extra layer of connection with fans, creating an emotional resonance around the project.

As IU and V continue to captivate audiences globally with their artistic synergy, “Love Wins All” stands as a testament to their collaborative brilliance. The behind-the-scenes footage provides fans with a deeper appreciation for the meticulous efforts invested in creating a visually stunning and emotionally charged music video, further enhancing the overall impact of this remarkable collaboration. The shared photos and personal messages on social media add an endearing touch, fostering a sense of shared joy and excitement within the fan community.

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RM’s Military Graduation Speech Ignites Discussion

At their recent military graduation, BTS’s RM and V were recognized as two of six elite trainees out of two hundred recruits. During the ceremony, RM delivered a speech via a pre-recorded video message. The speech delved into his experiences and reflections on his military service. It has since gone viral, sparking a wide range of reactions.

Many media outlets reported positively on the speech, stating that RM reportedly volunteered to deliver it. However, the response among ARMYs—BTS’s loyal fans—was divided. On one hand, some were skeptical about its authenticity. They suspected that RM might have been coerced into filming the video. Certain statements RM made in it appeared to contradict aspects of what he’s known to believe in, such as activism and free will. They alleged the speech was South Korean government propaganda aimed at motivating young men to be enthusiastic about military service.

[ENG] BTS RMㆍ뷔, 수료식도 ‘월클’✨ RM 영상편지 풀버전 공개

On the other hand, some fans believed that the content sounded authentic to RM. They interpreted the speech as his genuine effort to encourage and support his fellow trainees. Additionally, a third group of fans criticized the public discourse surrounding the speech. They argued that it wasn’t intended for a wider audience and shouldn’t be subjected to external analysis or debate.

The controversy also led to criticism of keyboard warriors, particularly those not from South Korea, for their remarks on the country’s political situation and military policies.

RM military graduation ceremony speech

What did RM say in his speech?

Here’s the full speech, with minor edits for clarity:

“It’s true that I postponed my enlistment for a long time. Because I entered the military at a fairly old age, I was afraid and worried about many things. Also, because I enlisted late, most of my colleagues in the dorm I lived in were fellow trainees about 10 years younger than me.

“Through mental strength education, I realized the necessity of the military and the need for basic military training in Korea, a divided and armistice country. I had experiences I wouldn’t have had if it hadn’t been for the Army Training Center. In particular, the night march I completed a few days ago was the most memorable.

“As I marched with my colleagues all night and looked at the stars and cheered together during difficult times, I was able to feel the kind of camaraderie I had only heard about. Thanks to the great executives and squad leaders, I was able to complete many training sessions that were very unfamiliar to me in a rewarding and fun way.

“Lastly, I would like to say that although it would be ideal to live in a world where everyone doesn’t need to learn marksmanship, the peace that has been enjoyed in Korea for over 70 years couldn’t have been possible without the noble sacrifice, effort, and dedication of many people. We’ll do our best to carry out our mission.”

Despite the controversy, many agreed that RM’s speech highlighted his exceptional public speaking skills. It reminded fans of what he truly excels at—performing for sold-out crowds. This has only heightened the anticipation for his return to music in 2025 with BTS. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: What did you think of his speech? Sources: Instagram/@rkive, X/@kloudsly.

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BTS’s V Heads to SDT Military Camp After Completing Basic Training

On January 16, Kim Taehyung, also known as V from BTS, completed his five-week basic training. He entered the Nonsan Training Center on December 11. Upon graduation, he emerged as one of six elite trainees out of two hundred recruits. This is a testament to his exceptional performance.

@kimsumarie888

#Taehyung qualified as an Elite trainee because: Managed to do 88 sit-ups in 2 minutes, 72 push-ups in 2 minutes, hit 16 out of 20 shots, ran 1.5 km in under 5 mins and 28 secs. He also ran 3km in under 12 mins and 30 secs 🔥 The award! Best Training Soldier 27th Training Regiment Private Kim Taehyung! The contents below are the same.” “You all will take pictures with your parents. The only reward leave certificate will be awarded to the 11 best trainees.” CONGRATULATIONS TAEHYUNG #Taehyung #SDT

♬ original sound – ✨김태형🐻👑 – ✨김마리🐻👑

When Taehyung enlisted, he chose to join the Special Task Force of the Capital Defense Command, also known as the Special Duty Team (SDT). Getting into the SDT isn’t easy due to its stringent application process. Before Taehyung, fewer young men attempted to join, given the difficulty of admission and intense training. However, on December 23, 2023, a Korean netizen noted in a Naver blog post that over 444 people applied for the SDT, a significant increase. Reportedly, only 91 were selected, with a selection rate of about one in every 4.9 applicants. This surge in applicants is attributed to Taehyung’s decision to join the team.

Joining the SDT means he has to take an additional three-week course after completing basic training. Two days after his graduation, he was spotted at a train station dressed in his military uniform and carrying his gear. Taehyung boarded a train bound for Jonghaenggyo Bridge to begin training at the Army General Administration School. The school’s excellent facilities contribute to its status as a premier institution for training in combat skills and leadership.

@ariessy9597

padayon mahal ko🥺. sobrang proud ako sayo lagiiii💚 #kimtaehyung #taehyung #militaryservice #Bangtan #btsarmy #fyp #fypage #fypシ゚viral

♬ 8 letters – Ajat

Taehyung will enjoy more perks

A former member of the Special Duty Team revealed in a blog that the specialized SDT training is notoriously challenging. It also lasts late into the night. Some trainees find it so demanding that they withdraw. In addition to physical fitness training, Taehyung will receive instruction in automatic target live ammunition, close-quarters battle, military police duties, preliminary rifle instruction, rappelling, and more. He will be trained by experts from the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, and Navy.

Despite the challenging nature of his training, Taehyung will enjoy more perks at the Army General Administration School compared to the Nonsan Training Center. Trainees are allowed television and phone usage as well as more free time. Furthermore, the Army General Administration School is known for providing delicious food.

@ariessy9597

Goodluck Taehyung!!!! Fighting, I’m so proud of you vv🫂💪🏻♥️.Keep supporting,keep Streaming on Layover in all platforms everyone!!!.. #kimtaehyung #taehyungie #fyp #bts #fypシ

♬ Wide Awake – Galuh

As Taehyung left the Nonsan Army Training Center, his Korean fans showed their support by installing banners along the route to his new training camp. These banners contained congratulatory messages for completing basic training and warm expressions of love, such as “Kim Taehyung, we vow lifelong loyalty to you.”

@ariessy9597

always been proud to taehyung and to Taecrew,vstan 🫂💚🥰 ctto:taeguide #taehyung #thv #kimtaehyung #V #vstan #taecrew💜 #fypage #fypシ #bangtanarmy #fyppp #bighit_official_bts

♬ suara asli – Gabriela Jeaniver – Gabriela Jeaniver

Those messages will surely keep his spirits up while he trains to become a full-fledged member of the SDT. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Good luck on the next phase of your training, V! Sources: X/@boraboravie, X/@kwaveone, X/@manilabulletin.

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Jimin and Jungkook Complete Basic Military Training

BTS’s Jimin and Jungkook have successfully completed their basic military training. They enlisted together under the buddy system in December last year. The completion ceremony, marking the end of their training, took place at the 5th Division’s Recruit Training Center on January 17.

X/@winnttaebear

Before the ceremony, Jimin wrote a heartfelt letter that was subsequently posted on Weverse. “A little over a month has passed. There are times when it feels like a long time, and there are times when it seems to go by quickly because Jungkook is next to me. It hasn’t been a long time but I already miss you a lot,” he began, addressing the fans.

“I say hello to the members on the pay phone, and Jungkook is also working hard in the military. He’s doing so well that the kids say, ‘As expected of Jungkook–hyung.’ He sticks with me and gives me a lot of support and strength,” Jimin added. “I’ll be going to my assigned military base soon, and I’ll adjust and try to do my best. ARMYs, please be careful not to catch a cold, don’t get sick, eat well, and think only good thoughts. Anyway, I’ll write to you when I get to the base. I love you!”

X/@JJK_Times

Jungkook also updated fans after the completion ceremony simply by writing one word (“Unity!”) on Weverse. He dominated social media trends after this brief message, with fans expressing their joy and relief at seeing him complete basic training safely. Finally, Jimin’s father posted some photos from the completion ceremony on the Instagram page of his café. The photos came with a message for ARMY, in which Jimin expressed gratitude for their love and support.

What will Jimin and Jungkook do next?

During the ceremony, Jimin received a commendation from his division commander, a prestigious award given to the unit’s top trainee. This commendation includes benefits like an early promotion and five-day, four-night vacation. This achievement reflects his exceptional performance across various aspects of military training, including discipline, leadership skills, physical fitness, and tactical knowledge.

Both Jimin and Jungkook were initially assigned to the 5th Infantry Division, where fellow BTS member Jin is serving. However, after a more detailed second classification was conducted, Jimin and Jungkook were identified as suitable for a more specialized function and were reassigned to an artillery battalion. An artillery battalion uses large-caliber guns, howitzers, and mortars to launch powerful, long-range attacks against enemy forces and fortifications.

@jiminahhlover0

I’m so proud of my favorite duo love you both🥰🥰🥰

♬ Military – Florews

Jimin and Jungkook may end up operating the K55 or K9 self-propelled artillery pieces. The K55, a mobile howitzer with a 155mm cannon, offers rapid deployment and robust fire support. The more advanced K9 Thunder has greater range, firing rate, and mobility, among other enhancements. It was once used to fire warning rounds near the Northern Limit Line in response to North Korean provocations.

As they continue their service, away from the stage but ever-present in the hearts of the ARMY, Jimin and Jungkook are showing that they’re dedicated soldiers as well as talented musicians. Fans, though concerned for their safety, are proud of their achievements and await their musical comeback in 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Their families took these photos the day they graduated. Sources: X/@army_bts_do8es, X/@BTS7army1316, X/@sottjm.

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